Alibi

Definition

A defense claiming the defendant was in a different location when the crime occurred, basically 'I couldn't have done it because I was somewhere else.'

Example Usage

The defendant's alibi was confirmed by security footage placing him across town.

Origin

From Latin 'alibi' meaning 'elsewhere'

Fun Fact

Alibis are only as good as your witnesses, and everyone assumes you're lying, so even solid alibis can require extensive corroboration.

Source: Criminal procedure and evidence law

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actus reus

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sidebar conference

A private discussion between attorneys and the judge at the side of the courtroom, out of the jury's hearing. Where lawyers argue about things too technical or prejudicial for civilian ears.

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appellant

The party who lost in a lower court and refuses to accept defeat, instead hauling their grievances up to a higher court for a second opinion. Armed with briefs and appeals, the appellant argues that the trial judge got it wrong, made legal errors, or was possibly asleep during critical testimony. They're essentially asking for a do-over, though appeals courts are notoriously stingy about granting them.

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solicitation

In legal terms, the act of asking, urging, or downright begging someone to commit a crime, which is itself a crime even if they never do it. It's like being arrested for asking your friend to rob a bank, whether they actually rob it or tell you to get lost. Prosecutors love it because they can nail you before anyone actually does anything stupid.

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